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THANK YOU!!
 Check out the list of prominent riders we wish to recognize! Each of these equestrians has contributed somehow in the past years to the further development of our philosophy of fit and our unique line of fully adjustable saddles. (our apologies if we've missed anyone!)
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Testimonials

Please read excerpts (not out of context but occasionally paraphrased for continuity and brevity where necessary), from customers who have experienced the quality and customer service that Schleese customers have come to expect. Feel free to contact us for further information and contact numbers if you would like to confirm any of these comments with those clients listed below. Please note that the most recent testimonials are added to the bottom

Schleese is an incredible company of professionals who collaborate to meet special needs. Thank you all for making sure Yogi and I have the right saddle. Christine, thanks for calling about how the Wave saddle is working. Please let Jochen know that it fits Yogi and I much better than the JES. I have ridden in it about 8 times now. I do not see anything that does not look correct when I remove the saddle and pad. He does have some ruffled hairs but I think that is just his winter coat shedding out.

Thank you all for the extra time and effort. Hopefully we can put saddle issues behind us and just go out and have some fun.

Wendee Walker, CA
I'm an engineer and I'm impressed in the research which has gone into your products and the correct application of them to each individual (horse and rider).

Richard Bergeron, LA
I would like to let you know how much I appreciated the services provided by one of your employees, Genevieve Kendell. I purchased one of your saddles 5 years ago. I saw Gen at ROLEX and she arranged her schedule to accommodate a fitting for me at the farm where I board in KY. She came this AM on her way to Chagrin Falls OH. Gen did a wonderful job and I am confident my horse and I will be much more comfortable. I really do like my Schleese saddle and am so happy I made the purchase.

Barbara Davenport, KY
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gen and John for the time and effort that they expended on us at the Pennsylvania Horse World Expo. I purchased a saddle last year and was having significant problems with it. Gen and John worked on the saddle at the booth, and when that didn't work, they brought the saddle machine back to the stall area and worked there. I can not tell you the time that they spent with us on Friday, Saturday and Sunday but it was substantial. The results that we had hoped for were not attained, so Gen added us to Her Virginia schedule for additional tweaking. Her schedule was already full and I know that she was anxious to get home, but she spent three hours with us fitting a new saddle to our Stallion. The result of Her effort was amazing. Vinchenzo's stride lengthened incredibly and winging he was doing with one foot almost disappeared completely. This horse is our pride and joy and it is wonderful to see him comfortable again. The education we received was invaluable. We will continue to sing your praises Gen. Thanks again and if we can help you in any way please let us know.

"Vinchenzo"
National Champion Plantation Pleasure Novice Horse
Joe London & Jeff Smith, VA
I wanted to follow-up on my appointment with Genevieve Kendell on Saturday, March 11 at 9:00am. She and the assistant with her were so fantastic, even early arriving, and my saddle once again fits my horse beautifully like new - when I first got it almost 2 years ago. I have noticed a muscling increase through the top of his back - a doctor friend of mine was talking about hypertonia and hyperplasia - which is where the muscle fibers get big and separate and then the individual fibers also get bigger. He now has muscle waves all across his back that even extend alongside his barrel. His traps are all filling in - he will have an extraordinary neck! I feel his development was plateaued because there was no room to grow to, but now he is changing so rapidly!

Glenda Warner, MI
Thank you for the excellent service this last year with my saddle. It has not been an easy situation but your staff has been wonderful. They are prompt, helpful, and friendly. You have made huge progress in the business end of your company and I congratulate you for it!

Kendall Summerhawk, AZ
Your saddle is absolutely fabulous - that is the best saddle! I love the scooped out area for my tailbone - it's the same as rowing machine with those little indentations. The rowing seats are designed to align the spine to project the force over knees when you're in rowing position. I never correlated this to the same spot on rowing machine, but you were right on the mark! What made this such a wonderful experience for me was my horse had an allergic reaction to a tube of Naquasone, a steroid, and he foundered severely. At one point the fear was I would lose him but he fought for me and I for him and here we are riding and working together one year post founder - almost to the day. In telling the story, in accommodating my saddle for my greatly changed horse, it all came back and I can not express the absolute gratitude and joy I have for not only my beautiful saddle, but that my horse is once again comfortable and happy in his work, and Genevieve and her co-worker helped us with this. It may have been a routine fitting for them but it was absolutely monumental for "Clancy" and me. Thank you all for helping us get back to the joy of ownership and working together as dressage partners. We will never be top riders but it is as important to me and means as much to me, as it means to the professionals riding Grand Prix. I may need to have an adjustment earlier than a year from now as I am hopeful Clancy will gain back his muscles from having almost a year off. Please keep me on your e-mail list if you happen to be in the Zip Code Area of 08060. Again, my thanks,

Candace Phipps, NJ
I want to thank Schleese for my "previously loved" saddle. I am not a professional horsewoman; I am a professional project manager for information technology projects. Riding is my escape, my therapy, and my much needed recreation. So when I decided to invest in a Schleese saddle, it was strictly for my pleasure and the horse's comfort. This saddle has made a huge difference in the way I ride and how secure I feel in the saddle. The big, beautiful, white horse on which I take my lessons, and with whom I have fallen completely in love, seems to appreciate the saddle as much as I do, and that is extremely important to me as well.

The decision to invest in a Schleese saddle has ended as a success story, but it didn't start out that way. There were many problems with the first saddle I tried. After several adjustments and changes, it became apparent that it just would not do. I had lost faith that Schleese could provide me with the saddle I had so hoped for. But Christine Curtin, who handles my account, found the perfect saddle for me. I have aging parents, both of whom require considerable medical attention, so I was out of pocket at various critical times during this process. Christine kept the saddle she found for me in her office until I could get back with her to make the exchange. Christine has been very patient, helpful, and supportive to me, regardless of the fact that I am not a professional rider. I feel that she gives me the same attention that she affords the world class competitors.

Christine has my gratitude, and I think she exemplifies the Schleese reputation that led me here in the first place.

Rhonda Allen, MS
You fitted my big chestnut horse, Waukegan, late last Saturday in Oxford, MI, and I cannot believe the difference in her - - exactly as you described.

I rode her Sunday, the day after the fitting. I usually lunge her first because she will get feisty and will hesitate going forward for the first 20 minutes. She would feel like she is ready to buck. However, there were too many people in the arena to lunge, so I got on her and walked her for about 15 minutes. She felt free in the shoulder immediately with a swinging walk. Her ears stayed up and she was very perky with no hesitation going forward. I asked her for a trot expecting her normal issues (balky, sideways, dropping her head behind the bit...) and she immediately went into a beautiful, forward trot. She never acted 'badly' once, and I cannot believe the difference. If this is the way she is the first day in her new saddle, I can only imagine how good she will be by the end of summer. My sister said my position was 100 times better and she had to get on to try the 'new horse and saddle' as well. She was very impressed and said it is the best Waukegan has ever felt. (I think your best 'salesman' will end up being Waukegan -- there is a big interest in the obvious change in her and everyone is asking me about my new saddle.)

You have made my horse a joy to ride again and solved this 'mystery' for me.

Thanks for being so generous with your time and for sharing your knowledge. We hope to have you back to lecture this fall!

Elaine Schultz, MI
If anyone you talk to needs to be convinced about the importance of saddle fit for the rider as well as the horse, tell them this story...

I went over to Poplar Place this morning to ride with Werner. At the end of my lesson on Nikko, he told me how much better I was sitting and how much better my leg position was (that's been a problem Werner has been after me about for a long time), then asked "What did you do?!" When I told him I'd had the saddle refitted and adjusted, he just said again how much better I was riding and what a difference it was making with my aids. He also pointed out himself that he had no idea that I had had any work done on the saddle and didn't know that I had been to a saddle fit clinic (I'd never said anything to him about it), so his observations hadn't been influenced by any expectation or previous knowledge.

Michelle Douglas, TN
I recently purchased 3 different dressage saddles to try to fit my Trak gelding - all 3 will have to be listed for sale once his new Schleese arrives.

My mare is also now ridden in a Schleese - a Wave. Her previous saddle will also have to be sold. She just had an evaluation by the equine massage therapist who pronounced her the best she's ever seen her and she's been seeing her monthly for 2 years. I did not tell her (forgot to tell her actually) that she had been ridden in the Wave for the past month. The trainer is raving about her swinging back.

If my horse is happy, then I'm happy. While I had avoided buying a Schleese thinking it too expensive, it really ended up being the perfect saddle and the expense was in buying other saddles that didn't fit.

Kristie Beaulieu, CA
Thank you for your knowledge and caring attitude! It shows in your beautiful products, workmanship, and most of all the way " Tommy Terrific" performs.

I first purchased my Schleese saddle in 1998 or '99 when " Tommy Terrific " was known as " Tommy the Terror ". In 2003 J. Schleese fitted my saddle. Tommy and I went on to our very first Prix St. George class and won the class!

In 2005 Tommy was once again having back trouble and your representative came out to help. We entered our 6th test in competition. Instead of winning our Intermediate I class we placed third because I went off course. ( I couldn't believe I made such an easy mistake. Tommy wanted to send me back for retraining).Actually I was honored to place in that class. Thousands of horses compete at the Winter Equestrian Festival and many do not take any ribbons home.

I am pleased to be a part of your winning team. I know my saddle maker, veterinarian, farrier, and dentist work on top international world class horses. So I have always considered it an honor to have you fit my horse's saddle. Thank you for helping Tommy Terrific to perform at his best.

Adriene Arkwright, VA
I just purchased a saddle from Schleese Saddlery and I wanted to drop you a note and let you know what a wonderful experience I am having with your organization. The customer service I have received from my salesperson was outstanding. He was excellent at explaining points to me, and answering all of my questions. Everyone I dealt with was incredibly pleasant and helpful at all times. I chose the Schleese Saddle because of the quality, fit to my horse and the comfort level for me - but also because I wanted a relationship with the Saddle Maker for future adjustments, reflocking or repairs. I do not want a person in some tack store of questionable qualification attempting to adjust my saddle fit when my young horse starts filling out. Therefore, a big part of my purchase decision was based on the customer service I received from your employees. I will not hesitate to recommend Schleese Saddlery to anyone I know in the market for a saddle.

Susan L. Simmers, MBA
Omaha , Nebraska
I continue to be so impressed by your vision, expertise, and energy. I am so glad you are sharing your amazing work with all kinds of riders, even those in backyards! It is so vital for those of us in this English riding "desert" to have someone of your caliber come to educate people. There is a desperate need for real experts here. It is a thrill to know that a lot of horses and riders here are more comfortable thanks to you.

Susan Dressler
Jackson , Mississippi
It was such a pleasure meeting you and your staff, and especially working with you. I have never met anyone like you who knows so much about the fitting of the saddle to horse and rider. Your saddles are the best I have ever ridden in and I think this is the best purchase I have ever made.

Judy A. Gladney
Jackson , Mississippi
Jochen visited Sea Horse Ranch last evening. Once he got underway, he was thorough and completely dedicated to making each saddle fit properly. Jochen stuck to it - watched Susanna ride well into the cold night until it was done properly. Her new horse is half TB and half DWB with truly a huge difference from the right to the left side, making the saddle fit extra challenging. I did want you to know that I appreciate the time and the energy. I don't think I am the only person who felt the service was worth the wait.

Diane Draeger
California
My children are both extremely fortunate to ride on custom made Schleese saddles, which I believe, without question, have given them considerable advantage when they are competing. I can recall that previous to having you craft a custom made saddle for one of our horses, this horse would receive numerous treatments including acupuncture, chiropractic, etc. because of a back condition. One could observe his back quiver with discomfort when his old saddle was placed on him, but once fitted with a proper saddle, this condition subsided. Your saddle, simply put, has made a world of difference in my daughters' equine partners, which in turn has made a world of difference in the results that both my children are able to achieve. It is ironic that many competitors will spend significant monies in the purchase of the horse, the training of the horse, the training of the competitor, the costs of room and board, vet, trailering and entry fees, yet may not obtain the most important tool and accessory which will make the horse comfortable and hopefully pain free to perform at its best. The extra costs of obtaining a custom fitted saddle has not been an expense but rather an investment - increasing the years that the horses will be able to perform to their maximum potential. We have now purchased several saddles from Schleese and have always thoroughly enjoyed dealing not only with you, but also your staff, who are extremely knowledgeable and quite frankly, a complete pleasure to deal with.

Peter A. Feifel LLB
Sault Ste. Marie , Ontario
I received my saddle after ordering it at Maryland Horse Expo and I already have a problem with it - the trouble is, it rides so NICE that I hate to get off! I mentioned to you that I ride in so many different saddles that either belong to myself or to clients, that it never really made a lot of difference to me what I was sitting on. There were a few brands that for the most part all rode the same, until I rode one of your saddles. One of the things that really stands out in my mind is how effortlessly one can ride in your saddle. It seems to take no extraneous effort to always remain in balance. The subtle energy you use to always place yourself in the most favorable position can now be used somewhere else or not at all. Thank you for this wonderful saddle.

Heather Irbinkskas
Sonoita , Arizona
I am writing to express my complete satisfaction with the dressage saddle I purchased at Rolex. It fits the horse perfectly and has made a big difference in her performance. The horse seems so much more comfortable now. I also thought that your staff was very pleasant and professional to work with. I had been looking for a nice saddle that fit my horse for a long time - thanks for helping me find it!

Carolyn Brim
Kenton , Ohio
I thought you would appreciate knowing that I am very happy with my saddle. I can't believe what a difference it has made in my riding. We won our class at the Eastern Trillium Championships - that would never have happened with my old saddle! This saddle stays in place beautifully and my horse moves bigger and freer than I thought she could! Thank you for a job well done!

Kathy Thomas
Kingston , Ontario
I just have to write and tell you how excited Insbruck and I are over our new saddle. For the first time since I've started riding dressage I am comfortable and feel I'm sitting correctly. Inzy is moving so much freer and he too is comfortable. My trainer was surprised and pleased with my new position. But that's not all - we went on a 2.5 hour trail ride and I could have gone all day! (I just wish they made chairs this comfortable!) Thank you from the bottom of my heart and bless you and your skill at making saddles!

Betty Boezinger
Healdsburg , California
I just wanted to tell you how much I love my Wave saddle. My horse is going so much better and happier and her shape is beginning to change. Her withers are starting to come up which I thought would never happen and her straightness and quality of gaits is very much improved-especially her extensions. Thank you for a wonderful saddle! And thank you so much to Jochen Schleese for coming to the farm in N.C. and fitting my mare. Thank you especially for taking so much time to explain all the details of saddle fitting and how they relate to the horse's physiology and movement. What a learning experience!

Susan McMillan
North Carolina
Thank you so much for refitting my daughters' Wave saddle yesterday. I know that your visit was out of the ordinary and I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your good will and attention. I would also like you to know that I just got a call from the horse's trainer and she was absolutely thrilled with his performance today in dressage. She said that he has never gone so well. He didn't have a hollow moment, was always in the bridle, and his transitions (both up and down) were the best ever.
I feel that the properly fit saddle has a great deal to do with his way of going, and I would just like to thank you for doing such a great job!

Lisa and Erin Wilde
California
I bought my new Wave saddle in July. I couldn't trot in it as my horse was recovering from an injury. After I was able to trot I discovered that the saddle fit my horse beautifully but I had some fit problems with it. I sent it back and you bent over backwards. You made rather extensive changes to accommodate me. I have ridden in it three times and am thrilled. Your company has never let me down and has truly provided outstanding customer service. This is the second Schleese I have purchased. The service on my old saddle was equally outstanding. I am grateful to your staff - especially Christine in customer service - for understanding and accommodating the needs of us fussy dressage riders.

Ilona Radelow
California
My much-anticipated new saddle arrived on Friday. I just wanted to let you know that I LOVE it - it is a beautiful saddle and the most comfortable saddle I have ridden in. It fits my horse like a glove and he seems much more comfortable. Thank you for your assistance in getting my order processed quickly.

Diana Wood
South Carolina
Just a quick note to let you know how pleased I am with my new saddle! It fits my horse very well and he has no more back problems!

Julie Taylor
Ohio
I am just writing to thank you for doing such a good job on my saddle. I feel a lot more secure at fast paces and do not feel that I need to use a foam pad for dressage work now.

Sandra Franks
Ontario
Just wanted to take a brief moment to express my heartfelt thanks for the wonderful service and saddle :) I cannot expressed how intimidated I was, I the great unwashed of the riding world, to have the supreme honor of being assessed by Jochen and John. Yet you quickly made me at ease and the overall process was practical and with well-infused moments of humor. We did not provide you with the greatest video footage. We had to re-do the drawings. Yet you took this all with good grace and the results are simply SUPERB. We came to you with two problems, one of a saddle that kept on sliding forward on my mare's shoulders and the other, of my newfound inability to keep my leg in the proper position which had me despaired beyond belief and for which I had been advised to seek a smaller "more suitable" horse. Well, Jochen - I will never know how you and your team really pulled this off other that you are simply put - demonstrated experts in your field - no fluff no false pretense. We knew this when we came to you, and then got to live and experience firsthand the 3S experience. My new Wave saddle fits my horse. My new Wave saddle puts me in a secure position that enables me to maintain a correct leg alignment from the get go. A miracle - probably not but good science and mastery of your craft. THANK YOU!

Natalie Samson
Oxford Mills, Ontario
The Link is it! Absolute top of the line in quality, contact, fit, everything - I'm so HAPPY and my horse is so HAPPY!!!! Don't even hesitate if you're considering the purchase of a Schleese - the saddles are amazing and the company will bend over backwards to keep you and your horse happy for life!

Evelyn Crouch
Idaho
Please thank all the staff involved for such good service, I wouldn't think of buying anything but a Schleese in future.

Barbara Judge
Ottawa, Canada
The times I REALLY notice the difference with the "new" saddle are at the canter. Mercedes was never easy about transitions to canter, and always felt stiff (I realize looking back) and went onto her forehand. Now, she transitions smoothly and canters with her hind legs under her and her forehand UP. What a wonderful change! As I found when we did our "test drive" with you, I feel much more balanced, my centre of gravity feels like it goes straight down. I love the feeling. Thanks so much for your help. May you have many, many clients lining up at your door!

Cynthia Orman
Perth, Ontario
I thought I'd drop you line. After I saw you at the American Canyon saddle fitting in June I promptly road Marlow to a magnificent 67.292% at Grand Prix under a fair, but not too generous judge. We smoked all other high score records. Emboldened, I signed up for the Woodside CDI where we received a 61.56% in the special. I wasn't thinking that was such a great score until I looked at all the other CDI special scores (ignoring those with the likes of Anky or Isabella) and I realized I would actually beat 90% of the participants, me, an adult amateur non-professional.

I owe 50% of our success to your saddle. And by the way, the saddle you made for Psycho Boy is the most comfortable saddle I've ever ridden in. Once I wear out Marlows saddle I'm buying one like that for him.

And did I mention Psycho Boy is going so well with his new saddle we have lines of changes down and he's even throwing one tempi's here and there - Whoopee!!!

Melissa Rogers, Marlow the magnificent, Wart - aka psycho boy, V - evilness junior
Perth, Ontario
After having looked for the best saddle for my Lipizzan and for me for the last seven months (a horrific journey through many saddles professing to be specifically for this breed), I have found the perfect fit in a gently used Schleese semi custom saddle. The horse and I are thrilled!

But even more importantly, I wanted to let you know that I found the Schleese representatives whom I contacted to be curtious, enthusiastic and most willing to help. They knew me only through emails, yet were willing to give advice and to search for a saddle and a happy ending. I was extremely impressed with their prompt replies and sincere attention and would like to list them to give them credit where credit is dueOutstanding saddle and outstanding representatives.

Continuing thanks,


Prudence Hammett
Bellevue, WA
07 RE: Lecture in Illinois
THANK YOU for a wonderful presentation and all the help that Luanne Reaume provided to our members. Everyone got something out of it!!!!!
Luanne went over and beyond in helping everyone!!!

Thank you again,

_________________________________________________________________

Dawn Schlickmann
IL
Here we are, loving our new saddle. She flies with it on and I manage to stay on! Also I would like to have info on care and products to use on the new saddle please so that I can keep it nice. Thanks to Jochen, you and the entire staff for making these exquisite saddle, we love it. Aloha,


Linda Costa
HI
I just received my new JES elite dressage saddle and Matt Hiron fitted my saddle. Matt is just wonderful - very knowledgeable, very professional, and most of all a nice person. Matt was a real pleasure to work with and went out of his way at a last moment's notice to make sure I was happy with the saddle - what a great representative for Schleese - the best in service. The saddle, out of the box, was a near perfect fit for my Friesian mare. To the guy(s) who made my saddle - every blue ribbon is for you - please tell them that. The saddle is the best feel I've ever ridden, comfortable from the start. This was a great investment for me, and the Schleese team has been a key part of the excellent horses at Shangri La Friesians. Thank you!!



Christine Law
Santa Paula, CA
The saddle fitting was accomplished at First Class without any problems. Natalie (the Saddle fit Technician) was FANTASTIC. Please let her come to us again and again. She is knowledgeable, explains what she is doing in a thorough, easy-to-understand manner and has the patience of a saint!!!

Thank you both for accommodating us and putting up with our varied personalities. Natialie knew just how to handle it.


Gail Gersh
I'm emailing you to let you know that my saddle arrived here in Saskatoon just fine.

The fit looks really good and I find it very comfortable. I think you did a great job with your suggestion for the Elite for me as it seems to be exactly what I wanted. I also really liked the pocket girth. The workmanship and leather is beautiful. This is my FIRST new saddle, and I am really happy with my decision.






Kim King, Saskatoon, SK
Jochen Schleese came to Maui to fit most of the island's show horses for saddles, and he recommended The Wave for me. I'm not all that into Dressage, but since I just bought a 4th level horse, I figured I need to get a really nice well fitting saddle. I paid about $4,000 well spent dollars on it. The only reason I would spend so much money on a saddle is that this saddle has an Adaptree in it. This means that I can use it on any horse I feel, after it has been adjusted to that horses specific weight and such.It's comfy, stylish, and I'll have it forever. I absolutely love my saddles from Schleese.Top quality, well put together.
You can use it on any horse (after it's adapted) - it Will never hurt your horse because it is MADE for your horse - All the Schleese techs are really nice and informative, even if you don't buy a saddle from them.

Molly Lofton, Maui, HI
I love my new saddle (JES Elite)! Thank you so very much for making it possible for me to continue to pursue the challenge of dressage with new confidence. Walter Zettl gave me a lesson last week and was thrilled that my mare was not grinding her teeth or sticking her tongue out - and my position was excellent. Such a relief!

I'm looking forward to years of enjoyment with my new saddle - it's perfect for me, and my mare is a new horse - more responsive and capable of more than I ever expected - happy and comfortable now. Thank you again and again!

Holly Momberger, NY
We won our Equitation class!
I just wanted to thank you for the perseverence regarding my saddle. Even though there was a slight mix with us riding the wrong saddle during the last visit, mine turned out to be even better. I absolutely love it. It feels perfectly balanced and Jackson moves very well under it. We will certainly set up a date in the next six months for Schleese to re-check the fit, but we are very happy right now. ( We won our Equitation class under both judges two days after we got it!) Thanks again

Jane Foerter, ON
After 8 years of riding this was the first true saddle fitting we've ever experienced. I joined the (Schleese) contest because I wish I could afford to buy two $4800 saddles. It was the first time that someone listened to me about my daughter's long leg needs, and educated us about our horse's needs. It was a wonderful experience. I was actually told that we can't buy off the rack. We do have special needs. I am not crazy after all. No tack shop has ever truly addressed our needs. They just want to sell you something. My daughter's long legs and coming over knee rolls, has always been addressed as 'buy the next size up'. Kirsten measured her! No one has ever bothered to measure my daughter. She said she was a size 17 in the seat, but her leg length is a size 18. She suggested the extended stirrup bar, especially after she saw her ride and drop her stirrups which is an ongoing thing for her.

Now the horse we brought yesterday has major concerns. Kristen really educated us on correct saddle position for his unusual body type. She pointed out his sore spots as well. I regret that we did not bring our 4th level horse, but I will next time. We've had problems with saddles slipping forward and the list goes on. When they have previously adjusted our saddle it would tip forward when my daughter posts or backwards. I can honestly say this is the first true saddle assessment that someone really paid attention to the fine details. I am truly impressed. Thank you

Patricia King, TN
I have been through a lot of saddles in my life - when you're young you're not as picky and in Germany - where I grew up - no one wasted a minute about thinking of saddle fit for horse or rider???? What a concept and what a luxury.

Thankfully we have arrived in a different time. I have had a couple of great saddles - but the one that really marries the best for my horse and the best for me is my custom Schleese. I have to say this because I was very leery - especially since the Schleese has always been known to be first class for the horse's back and a 'dressage movement enabler'... BUT- the ladies that rode in it mostly had sad faces and weren't happy...it was NOT comfy.

Well I guess they have figured it out now- because I AM very HAPPY in my saddle and my horse moves like from a 6 to an 8 on gaits...and there are witnesses saying that! I think the tree is fibreglass - or something else than wood - so it kind of folds almost- it's definitely elastic and when you ride any medium gait it truly sucks you into the movement and the saddle - so if you are loose in the hip - all you have to do is follow the movement. The horses (I ride both mine in this saddle- although they are vastly different ...) love it- have perfect sweat marks- are not encumbered and I am a happy camper...! It was not cheap - but worth every penny!!!

Sabina Di Sano, CA
Lifetime Amateur Dressage Rider
Here is a short blip about how Impromptu (romper) and I feel about our Schleese saddle! After trying several well known brands of hunt saddles, I was really frustrated! Impromptu a three year old Morgan mare, has a nice wide spine, and well developed withers. She and I had come to a stand still in our training progress as none of my saddles were fitting her. They either rolled side to side as I was riding her, or sat to low on her making me ride "uphill" all the time. A friend of mine rides in a Schleese dressage saddle on her Morgan mare. She suggested I try having the saddle fitters come out and assess Impromptu. A few weeks later we had Schleese out to the farm. The saddle fitters were very nice and easy to work and speak with. They had me try Impromptu in a "Hunter Pleasure" Schleese saddle. I was pleased from the moment I sat in it and rode her around. Impromptu has grown leaps and bounds, physically, and mentally with our new saddle. It has allowed her the freedom of her shoulders, back, etc. Impromptu had a great first show season for herself and we are looking forward to an excellent show season this year! The saddle fits my other big Morgan mare for just as nicely! I highly recommend this saddle to Morgan owners!!! Its a pleasure to have a saddle company fit the saddles properly, and offer great customer service! Good customer service is a rarity these days and very much appreciated!

Suzanne Evans, Trainer at Evans Equestrian Center, PA
I just purchased a new Schleese (size 18 Infinity) from you. A couple of comments....I LOVE my new Schleese - I think that I'm gonna marry it!!!!!! Although it has been tough trying to get used to a dressage saddle (when all that I owned was an all-purpose Collegiate) and getting used to my horse moving so BIG !!! Also, I'm seriously considering buying a jumping saddle from y'all - given how well that this saddle fits my horse! So I'm thinking...that when you come back in 6mos to check my horse - can you bring some either new or used jumping saddles with you?? Also, I think I might have a couple of other people interested in getting their saddles checked at that time as well !! Anyway, that's all for now!! I appreciate all of your help - the change in my horse has just been amazing !!!

Valarie Porter-Cranor (and Tigger) :), TX
I am writing to you to tell you how pleased I am with my Schleese saddles.
They are so comfortable and my horses move so much better with them than with the other saddles that I have. The service I have received is excellent: Deb and Matt from California really go the extra mile to help their customers and they really work hard to make the saddles fit both the riders and the horses perfectly. With my long legs, it has been hard to find the right saddle for me. Deb and Matt helped fit the saddles to me and I ride better in your saddles than any other saddles on the market. Your saddles are truly the best on the market. Thank you very much and happy holidays.

Gina G., CA
There is a lot to consider in achieving good fit - your presentation opened the door to understanding that there is a lot of benefit to the "happy athlete" by paying attention to saddle and equipment fitting well. The three essentials you afford me are great to keep in mind.

Barbi Breen-Gurley, CA
Just wanted to let you know I am really enjoying my new Wave. My horse is so much more comfortable. I can actually hack him out again! I never put the two together, but I noticed after I got that County; he used to object to being hacked out. I wouldn't get far from the barn and he would try to rear and refuse to walk forward, and try to get back to the barn (i used to canter him "on the buckle" all around the hills of Chester Co, PA). I gave up hacking him, just figured my dressage horse was no longer my hack horse. Last week I noticed I could walk him down the driveway and he was his old forward self. This past weekend I took him out in the fields and he forgot all about his previous dislike of hacking. I can't say enough about what the saddle has done for my position and riding (more open hip and therefore, more uphill balance); but, being able to hack out again and that my horse is really enjoying it is a unexpected surprise. I'm happy to know that he is comfortable again! I wanted to ask you if Schleese recommends any particular care tips/products. I haven't done anything to it except wipe it down, just to make sure I was going to keep it before the 30 day trial was up. Thanks for all of your help and your expert fitting and advice.

Liz Henne, GA
Here are the thoughts I have re: the saddles and why I continue to get them:

1. Personalized and clearly knowledgeable fit for the horse and for the rider;
2. The saddles are not only comfortable, they are effective...at helping rider naturally, without strain, maintain productive posture/seat for whichever discipline.
3. The saddles have allowed various of our horses to move more freely, become more balanced in their bodies; turn better; take weaker leads more readily, for example.
horses with sore or weaker backs or conformation have benefited.
4. Followup, followup, followup...the attention to detail, checking fits for horse and rider; listening and producing changes in the saddle as needed, as each horse's body changes (and/or the rider's!), is remarkable.

Yes, one pays for this personalized service. Personally I feel it has allowed my riding, as a mature rider to become more graceful and effective, while being easier on my back, especially, than other "custom" saddles.

It must be noted however, that our horses also receive routinely: body work, conditioning, training, equine dentistry; specialized farriery as needed....the saddles are part of a "comprehensive program" to support longevity and productivity for horses and riders.

Charlotte C., FLA
Many thanks to Kristen and Christine for their profesionalism and preciseness in fitting my saddle. so pleased to have pros assess, discuss and recommend for each of my horses. As a novice rider with some physical limitations I found their concern for the right 'match of saddle' to both horse and rider paramount to 'selling a saddle'. Unlike many other 'saddle ' fitters, both were most focused on just that saddle fitting. No hard sell in fact quite the opposite. I am anxious to receive the used saddle which I purchased from Schleese as it is identical to my other older which I love. I am confident that this one too will be a good fit for both of us. Many thanks and do not hesitate to have potential Schleese customers contact me.

Diane Brant , FL
I purchased a new dressage saddle from Schleese approximately one year ago. I was forced into the saddle buying market because my young horse proved to be very difficult to fit. I want you to know how much I love the saddle and what a relief it is to know that my saddle is not contributing to any discomfort for my young horse as she matures and develops. The saddle has made a tremendous difference in my ability to improve my seat and aids. As an adult amateur rider that takes much pleasure from my horses I want to thank you for your excellent product and customer service. Initially intimidated by the thought of a 'custom made' saddle I now recognize it was the best thing I could have done. The saddle buying experience has been pleasurable and painless from the start with Schleese involved. I thank Gen Kendell for taking the time to explain the saddle fitting process and answering all my questions. Gen attended my farm again in the fall (unsolicited) to check on the continued good fit of my saddle and it was another enjoyable experience. I realize how lucky I am to have purchased a Canadian product that has superior craftsmanship as well as truly extraordinary customer service. Believe me that I tell everyone I know of my positive experience with Schleese and I thank you again.

Vicki Ryckman, ON
I have been a Schleese client since 2004. I believe that Schleese makes wonderful leather products and is top of the industry in saddle fit for the horse. Unfortunately there have been times when I haven't thought Schleese customer service is as wonderful as your products. This is NOT one of those times!

Over the last 6 weeks I have been asking difficult questions regarding whether an outside product, a "seat bone saver" could be added to my saddle due to a low back injury which has resulted in a dysfunction.

Kristen  was very understanding, as well as thoroughly answering my questions, addressing my concerns and advising me on what she felt would be the best solution. Kristen also demonstrated how much she believes in the product she promotes by making it risk-free for me to follow her plan of action.

Kristen demonstrates good customer relations whether on the phone with me or in person at the saddle fit clinics. She has always been conscientious and knowledgeable about providing the best fit for horse and rider and now has extended these evaluation skills to include a rider with low back dysfunction - Me!

I think more often than not you probably hear about the problems - Just wanted you to know what an asset Kristen is to Schleese Saddlery!

Christina Wardlaw, TN
You need to know that Jocko, the Canadian Field Hunter Champion for 2007  the Master of Fox Hounds Association centennial  was also clad in Schleese. And one of the Virginia judges said to me What a beautiful saddle!  yes we won the appointments/turnout class too. A poster size photo of us jumping toward the camera was on display (with many others) at the closing ceremonies at Morven Park in May. Thanks to a Schleese, we looked great.

Sporty loves his new saddle. So does my bum!

Anne McKibbin, ON
Holly, Snip and I had are back from a 2 day trip down to Pensacola, Florida where we met our fantastic Rep/Saddle fitter from Schleese for a saddle fitting. We didn't really pay to much attention to the mileage before heading out, but the owner of the barn down in Pensacola said it was about a 4 hour drive to her place from Atlanta. Well, 2 hours into the trip we realized this wasn't a 4 hour trip, but rather a 6 hour trip. We arrived in Pensacola just a few minutes before our scheduled saddle fitting. Kristen, the Rep/Saddle fitter was just finishing with the horse before us so it was perfect timing.
The Schleese saddle is still new for Holly, and so far we have nothing but great things to say about this company. We knew this was a fantastic company from the second we started talking to them at the World Cup in Las Vegas. So, if youre looking for a custom fit saddle, try a Schleese saddle. They have great saddles, and great customer service.

Hains Dressage, FL
John was amazing. His professional approach, knowledge and people skills are a credit to any employer. He is great with kids and adults alike and certainly impressed me with his wide experience.
The man is a gem and I feel that we all came out way ahead for his coming to the barn. I look forward to our next meeting of which I feel will happen again!
Thanks again and if I can ever give you a hand, please let me know!

Chuck Byers., ON
I recently bought a saddle from your company and I would just like to say how happy I am with it. I am really noticing a difference in my horse and Ive only ridden in it a hand full of times.
Your fitter John was amazingly helpful and knowledgeable. The battle to find a saddle that fits my hard to fit horse was very frustrating and he was a huge help.
I never felt pressured to purchase the saddle and he went through all the options with me. I would purchase from you guys again in a heart beat and Ive been talking about the service non stop since I got my saddle.
Thank you very much please pass my thanks on to John as well.

Courtney Siler, Ontario
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